Intense Heatwave to Grip Large Parts of India, IMD Warns

X: @the_news_21

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for intense heatwave conditions in several states across the country, including Andhra Pradesh, Yanam coastal regions, Gangetic West Bengal, Rayalaseema, Bihar, Telangana, Jharkhand, north interior Karnataka, Odisha, and Vidarbha for Saturday.

In addition to the heatwave alert, the weather department has also cautioned about the possibility of hailstorms over Sub Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, East Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, and Chhattisgarh for April 7 and 8.

The IMD has highlighted regions experiencing above-normal temperatures, underscoring the severity of the impending heatwave.

Addressing a press conference, Union Minister for Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju warned that India is likely to experience extreme heat during the April to June period, with central and western peninsular parts facing the worst impact. This coincides with the mammoth seven-phase general elections starting on April 19, posing a significant challenge for the electorate and poll staff.

“It is going to be very challenging for all of us. Since we are the most populous country in the world and face extreme weather conditions, it makes it absolutely necessary for India to prepare in advance,” Rijiju stated.

IMD Director General Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra cautioned that above-normal maximum temperatures are likely over most parts of the country during the April-June period, with a high probability over central and western peninsular India. He further warned that above-normal heatwave days are expected over most parts of the plains during this period, with 10 to 20 days of heatwaves anticipated in different parts of the country, compared to the normal range of 4 to 8 days.

The states of Gujarat, central Maharashtra, north Karnataka, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, north Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh are likely to experience the worst impact of heatwaves, according to Mohapatra.

The intense heat could strain power grids, impact winter-grown crops, and result in water shortages in parts of India, exacerbating the challenges faced by the population and authorities during the election season.

Authorities have urged citizens to take necessary precautions, stay hydrated, and seek shade during the peak heat hours to minimize the risk of heat-related illnesses. Proper planning and preparedness are crucial to mitigate the impact of the impending heatwave conditions on the electorate, poll staff, and the general public.

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